every regard and show they could run the ball against a very good run defense. and make a lot of plays on the perimeter with their receivers. >> the 49ers have played four nfc championship games on the road since 1970 and have only won one of them. and that was back in 1988, a game harbaugh remembers well, as he was a backup quarterback for chicago, when the 49ers beat them 24-3. as a result, he hopes to repeat as a head coach sunday against the falcons. in santa clara, mindi bach, nbc bay area. >>> how about nhl hockey talk now. quite a sight for the sore hockey fans' eyes at the shark tank. a little more than a week to go for san jose's home opener, crews were putting paint on hp pavilion. the first time there's been physical contact between the players today. >> nothing like playing a game. you have to be ready to, you know, suck a little wind the first game. guys, like i said, guys look in good shape. good practice today. continue it tomorrow. >> after the third or fourth day, you'll have soreness. but hopefully it will be going away. >>> tonight, bob melvin